Do you need a few pro jigsaw puzzle solving quick tricks? I think we all do!
Jigsaw puzzles can be a fun and rewarding challenge, but let’s face it, jigsaw puzzles can also be frustrating when you’re stuck on a tricky section. Whether you’re a seasoned puzzler or just starting out, having a few extra tricks up your sleeve can make all the difference. While most people know the basics like “start with the edges,” I believe you need to focus on lesser-known tips that can boost your jigsaw puzzle solving.
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So Much Speed Jigsaw Puzzle Solving Quick Tricks to Consider
As a speed puzzler, I get all sorts of advice, which is great! However, whenever you think about the pros (or at least those folks fastest in the field) you need to realize they get tips too. The difference is they try many jigsaw puzzle solving tricks and only use the ones that work for them.
Yes, you too can be a quick solver when it comes to jigsaw puzzles! Take a peek at these ideas.
1. Sort Pieces by Texture and Pattern, Not Just Color
When puzzling, most people focus on color sorting, but paying attention to textures and patterns can be even more effective for tricky areas. For example, a sky might have subtle gradients, but clouds will have a distinct fluffiness in their texture. Grouping pieces with similar textures can help you crack sections that appear to be the same color at first glance.
Pro Tip: Use a good light source to highlight subtle textures and brush strokes on pieces for better sorting.
2. Flip the Puzzle Over for Shape Matching
This might sound counterintuitive, but flipping all the pieces upside down to show only the cardboard backing forces you to focus on the shape of the pieces rather than the image. This trick is particularly useful if you’re stuck in a high-detail area, like a flower bed or tree leaves, where colors and patterns are too similar to distinguish easily.
Why It Works: Shapes provide clues about how pieces fit together when visual distractions are removed.
3. Use the Puzzle Box Strategically
Instead of keeping the puzzle box upright on the table, lay it flat under a clear plastic sheet. This allows you to reference the image at eye level without needing to pick it up repeatedly. You’ll save time and reduce the risk of misplacing pieces.
Advanced Trick: Take a photo of the puzzle box and zoom in on tricky sections for a closer look. This is especially helpful for puzzles with fine details.
4. Rotate the Board Regularly
If you’re working on a puzzle with multiple people or tackling it solo, rotating the board can give you a fresh perspective. Sometimes, a section that didn’t make sense from one angle suddenly becomes clear when viewed from another.
Family Tip: For group puzzling, rotating the board helps everyone contribute, as they can focus on different sections from new angles.
5. Think in Zones, Not Sections
Rather than tackling the puzzle piece by piece or section by section, divide the puzzle into zones based on the image’s composition. For example, in a landscape puzzle, think in terms of the sky, water, and land. Within each zone, sort pieces further into subcategories, such as “cloudy sky” or “dark water.”
How It Helps: This method makes large puzzles feel less overwhelming by breaking them into manageable chunks.
6. Leverage Edge Pieces as Anchors for Interior Progress
After completing the border, edge pieces can still be useful. Look for interior pieces that connect to the edge and build inward. For example, if the edge has part of a tree trunk, you know the adjacent interior pieces will include the rest of that tree.
Pro Tip: Lay edge pieces slightly apart from each other in the beginning. This makes it easier to identify which sections they connect to once you’ve moved inside.
7. Use Sorting Trays or DIY Containers
Sorting trays can be a lifesaver when working on large or complex puzzles. Instead of keeping all pieces on the table, sort them into smaller containers or trays based on their categories (e.g., colors, textures, or patterns). If you don’t have sorting trays, use everyday items like muffin tins, small bowls, or even Tupperware lids.
Why It Works: Reducing visual clutter helps you focus and find the right pieces faster.
Bonus Tips for Puzzle Enthusiasts
- Photograph Your Progress: If you need to clear the table but don’t want to lose your work, take a photo of your progress for reference when you return to the puzzle.
- Use a Puzzle Mat: A roll-up puzzle mat makes it easy to store your work-in-progress without disturbing the pieces.
- Stay Organized with Puzzle Glue: Once you finish your masterpiece, consider using puzzle glue to preserve it as art. This is especially rewarding for beautiful or challenging puzzles.
Why Do These Jigsaw Puzzle Solving Tricks Work?
Puzzles are a mix of logic, spatial reasoning, and creativity. Many of these tricks focus on removing the overwhelming aspects of puzzling, like visual clutter or mental fatigue, by breaking the process into smaller, manageable tasks. They also encourage you to look at puzzles from a new perspective, whether that’s focusing on shapes, textures, or fresh angles.
Wrapping It Up: Puzzling Made Easy
Jigsaw puzzles don’t have to be a frustrating experience. By using these seven quick tricks, you can make your puzzle-solving process smoother and more enjoyable. Whether you’re working solo, with family, or in a group setting, these tips will help you stay organized, focused, and engaged.
Next time you open a puzzle box, try incorporating some of these ideas and watch how they transform your experience. Happy puzzling!
